London to Trial a New Pilot Scheme to Divert Low Level Cannabis Offenders

London’s Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) is trialling a new way of dealing with low level UK cannabis offending. The police will be able to use their discretion to divert people from court. They will be using a range of interventions such as restorative justice and diversion courses.

This new pilot scheme is said to be held across 3 main boroughs. It is reported to be Lewisham, Bexley, and Greenwich.

Mr Khan said: “Keeping Londoners safe remains our top priority. While there is no place for low-level crime on our streets I want to give people the chance to stop re-offending, before it begins through early intervention and targeted support.”

“This new approach will help turn back the tide of anti-social behaviour. It will keep Londoners safe and ultimately save taxpayers’ money.”

The MPS said it expects that between 20% and 25% of cases will be diverted away from court during the first year of operation. It estimates to save around £7 million in court costs.

London’s mayor, Mr Sadiq Khan has denied on multiple occasions that he is not attempting to decriminalise cannabis across the capital. He has insisted that he does not have the power to do this on a larger scale.

“We have listened to the concerns raised about cannabis enforcement. We are determined to turn the tide on this,” said Mr Khan. “I have been clear that I want London to become one of the safest cities in the world – not one of the most dangerous.”

The aim of the scheme is to make it easier for officers to deal with cannabis users who aren’t causing problems for the wider public. The Metropolitan police estimates that officers spend 30% of their time dealing with cases linked to cannabis. This means less time is spent tackling more serious crimes such as burglary and robbery, police say.